About Your Trip
Get ready to experience the thrill of Salmon fishing on the mighty Lake Michigan with Captain Daryl—just a short drive from downtown Chicago, but a world away from the ordinary. Running weekend trips from April through October out of Waukegan Harbor, Captain Daryl offers a front-row seat to some of the best freshwater fishing in the Midwest. With decades of experience and an unbeatable location, he’ll put you on the fish—and fast.
Thanks to Waukegan
Harbor’s unique position on the lake, you’ll have quick access to both nearshore and offshore structures that hold fish all season long. Whether you're an early-season angler looking to kick things off with Coho, or you're chasing a late-summer trophy King, there’s always something biting on these trips.
In the spring, it’s all about variety and fast action. April can bring in feisty Coho Salmon along with monster Brown and Lake Trout, especially in nearshore waters. By May and early June, it’s game on for Coho—expect fast-paced action with 3-6lb fish piling into the boat. You'll also have the chance to hook into Chinook (King) Salmon and Lake Trout as the species start to overlap.
Come late June and early July, the fishing really starts to heat up. This is prime time to catch all five of Lake Michigan’s top salmon and trout species in one trip—Chinook, Coho, Lake Trout, Brown Trout, and Steelhead. Whether it’s the drag-screaming runs of a big King or the aerial acrobatics of a Steelhead, this is the most diverse bite of the year.
By late July and August, mature Chinook in the 12–20lb+ class move in strong. This is your shot at a true freshwater trophy. Lake Trout remain plentiful, and some years bring in a bonus run of hard-fighting summer Steelhead. And if you’re lucky, a few late-season Brown Trout may make an appearance as well.
September and October mark a transition to cooler temps and stunning fall colors, but the bite doesn’t slow down. In fact, this is the best time to hook into monster Lake Trout on remote offshore rock reefs that Captain Daryl knows like the back of his hand. It’s also a solid window for non-spawning Kings, plus Brown Trout and Steelhead cruising the cooler waters.
Captain Daryl’s fully equipped boat offers a comfortable and efficient ride to the action, with top-tier trolling gear, GPS and sonar, and all the tackle you’ll need for a successful day on the water. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying your hand at salmon fishing for the first time, Captain Daryl will guide you every step of the way.
Amenities
Skill Levels
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Tackle
All rods, reels, and tackle are included.
Boat Restroom
This boat has a restroom.
Weather
You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather
Flexible Cancelation
This trip can be canceled up to 14 days before the trip.
Fish Cleaning
No cleaning service provided.
Live Bait
Live bait is not used on this trip.
Kid Friendly
This trip is best for adults.
Disability Friendly
This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.
Lunch
Please provide your own food / snacks.
